MUSCAT : The Oman Investment Authority revealed that its semiconductor-focused investments, led through the “Ithca” group, have successfully attracted three global companies to establish centers and offices in Oman by the end of 2025. The initiative underscores the growing importance of semiconductors as the backbone of modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, communications, and energy systems.

The expansion reflects OIA’s “Omani Dimension” philosophy, which focuses on localising advanced technologies, transferring global expertise, and building a robust national research and development ecosystem. These efforts are expected to strengthen Oman’s position as a competitive destination for high-tech industries, support economic diversification, and create quality employment opportunities for Omani youth in engineering and innovation.

Among the key investments is a RO 5 million (US$13 million) stake in GSMA, a semiconductor design company. This has led to the establishment of a fully integrated semiconductor design center in Oman, where local engineers are being trained to develop advanced electronic chips, including radio frequency and power management circuits. The initiative has already trained 92 graduates, with 67 securing employment in specialized fields.

Further strengthening its portfolio, OIA invested RO 1.93 million (US$5 million) in Lomotiv, a company specializing in programmable optics and 3D sensing technologies. The investment has facilitated the opening of a local branch in Oman, bringing cutting-edge optical control and AI technologies into the country, alongside commitments to employ national talent.

In addition, a RO 7.7 million (US$20 million) investment in Movandi, a leader in semiconductor solutions and 5G technologies, has paved the way for the establishment of a subsidiary in Oman. The move supports the development of advanced wireless communication systems, including smart antennas and signal optimization technologies, crucial for enhancing network performance across urban and remote areas.

Collectively, these investments are laying the groundwork for Oman to emerge as a regional center for semiconductor innovation. They also reinforce OIA’s broader mandate under the National Development Portfolio, which oversees more than 160 companies across key sectors, to drive sustainable economic growth and long-term competitiveness.

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